Forest Trails, Jacksonville,FL

Forest Trails is a charming neighborhood situated in the southeastern part of Jacksonville, FL, offering a peaceful suburban vibe that’s perfect for families and anyone looking to enjoy a quiet, community-oriented lifestyle. This area is known for its lush, tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes that provide a welcoming atmosphere. Residents appreciate the friendly neighborhood feel and the abundance of green spaces, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities like jogging, biking, or simply taking a leisurely walk. The community’s proximity to several parks, including the popular Cedar Hills Park, means there's always a place to relax or engage in family-friendly recreation.

One of the standout attractions near Forest Trails is the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, just a short drive away. This renowned zoo offers a fantastic day out for families, featuring a wide variety of animals and beautiful botanical gardens. Additionally, the Regency Square Mall area is conveniently close, providing plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. For those who enjoy dining out, the neighborhood benefits from a mix of local eateries and well-known chain restaurants, making it easy to find something for every palate. The balance of suburban tranquility and access to amenities makes Forest Trails a highly desirable area to settle down in.

While Forest Trails offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle, it’s also conveniently located about 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Jacksonville. This means residents can quickly access the vibrant urban center, with its growing business district, cultural venues, and nightlife, without sacrificing the serenity of suburban living. The commute is relatively straightforward, allowing for a great work-life balance. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or lifestyle reasons, Forest Trails provides a wonderful blend of comfort, convenience, and community that makes it a standout choice in Jacksonville’s diverse neighborhoods.

In Forest Trails, 31% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 31% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Forest Trails demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 6,122, the number of residents who reside in Forest Trails is about average in size compared to other Jacksonville neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

With a lower than average population density of 267 people per square mile, Forest Trails offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Jacksonville neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Forest Trails crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Forest Trails, the median home price is about $246,622, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Forest Trails have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,453, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Forest Trails combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Forest Trails can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.